Diversity and inclusion

For the last 30 years, we’ve been one of Australia’s leading consultancies for gender diversity in the workplace, diversity measurement and change. Working with our specialist division, and backed by a tonne of research, our four-part framework will help you understand workplace diversity and inclusion in your place of business.

Having a diverse and inclusive workforce is the most effective way you can encourage people to step into higher leadership roles.

Shine a light on the experiences and perceptions of fairness and equality in your organisation while we manage the details of getting the data from your employees.

Here’s how we uncover any areas for improvement as well as what’s working in your organisation when it comes to diversity and inclusion and engagement:

• Staff engagement workshops
• Unconscious bias training
• Facilitation and dialogues
• Focus groups
• Training
• Coaching
• Mentoring
• Strategy and policy development
• Measurement

Gender diversity in the workplace

This principle refers to the representation and inclusion of people of different genders in an organisation. This includes people who identify as male, female, non-binary, genderqueer, and gender non-conforming, among other gender identities.

Gender diversity also encompasses issues related to gender equality, such as equal pay, equal opportunities for advancement, and creating a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based on gender.

A workplace that promotes gender diversity not only respects and values the contributions of all employees, regardless of their gender, but also recognises that different genders bring unique perspectives and skills to the table. 

Benefits of gender diversity in the workplace

From a practical standpoint, this office environment can promote collaboration, reduce bias, encourage open dialogue, and streamline creative problem-solving. 

At the same time, a gender-inclusive workplace sends out a strong message that you respect and value employees from all backgrounds. Not only does this make for happier staff members with greater job satisfaction, but it also helps to create an overall atmosphere of acceptance and tolerance that encourages people to bring their whole selves to work. These can lead to improved decision-making, increased innovation, and better representation of your customers and clients.

How to build a gender-inclusive workplace

Organisations still face challenges in achieving gender diversity, including unconscious bias and stereotypes, limited recruitment and retention strategies, and inadequate support and training for diverse employees.

Most organisations continue to have very low levels of representation of women in senior leadership positions – even though research says that when more women are at the top of organisations, they’re likely to be better placed to work and organisational performance and profitability are higher.

Your company can work on these challenges by implementing inclusive policies, providing training and education on diversity and inclusion, building a diverse workforce through recruiting and retention, creating an inclusive culture, and holding leaders and managers accountable for promoting gender diversity and inclusion.

A straightforward starting point is to address any of your existing policies or mission statements that may be exclusive or discriminatory. Then when hiring, actively seek out diverse applicants through job postings and outreach efforts, so that all voices are represented within the team. 

During interviews, treat everyone fairly, showing respect for all identities. Lastly, take positive steps to foster an inclusive environment by offering training seminars about group dynamics, building empathy among colleagues and embracing different experiences for a stronger work culture overall.

With our help, you can understand why women are underrepresented in leadership positions and on boards and learn how to overcome the barriers to retaining excellent female talent.

Our approach is evidence-based, collaborative, change-oriented and strategic – so much so, we’ve even written a book about it! If you would like a copy, just email us and we’ll send one out to you.